AL-KO Kober and Wilson Trailer recently introduced the first ever dedicated rubber torsion triple-axle system, according to a press release.

Wilson Trailer, a well-respected livestock trailer manufacturer established in 1890, was looking for supplier of a rubber torsion triple-axle configuration to meet their customers’ specialized needs. After being advised by its axle manufacturer not to use the axles in that configuration, Wilson trailer joined forces with AL-KO, a full-line trailer axle manufacturer based in Elkhart, Ind., to develop this groundbreaking system.

“Taking a regular axle system and putting it into a triple-axle configuration is not ideal. Mechanically speaking, safety and performance can only be properly addressed when the axles are pre-designed to work together as a single unit,” said Tim Kuppler, AL-KO president. “Not only that, but we have to consider the live cargo involved. The rebound with rubber torsion is controlled and transfers minimal road shock to the animals, making it easier on their knees, which is extremely important to the consumer. There was no specifically designed system that addressed all these concerns, so we put our heads together with Wilson Trailer and invented it ourselves.”

The new triple-axle configuration features improved side-load capability and empty-load ride enhancement, touting a combined 21,000-lb. load capacity. This patent-pending product is the latest addition to the new AL-KO Advanced Design program that builds strength into key components so less material is required while still providing the same or even increased power.

“It’s a prime example of our continual efforts to come out with products that are both more powerful and more efficient. With our Advanced Design you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other,” Kuppler said.

Through “brutal” testing at Bosch Automotive Proving Grounds, the triple-axle system was shown to stand up to the toughest conditions. “Our track testing involved an extensive road course over a variety of destructive events designed to recreate the worst of real-life situations,” Kuppler said.

The system as a whole and its components were tested and measured for impact, load variations, stress and endurance. It was monitored and inspected throughout the testing process, with a professional film crew on site to capture the dynamic responses.

“In the end, the trailer and the triple axle system passed with flying colors,” Kuppler said. “We’re very proud to be able to present this to the market.”

For more information about AL-KO, call 574-294-6651 or visit www.AL-KOusa.com.